Who Am I?

HI! My name is Imane, I am Moroccan-American woman, raised in Minnesota with a dream to one day make a difference in the world through mental health and psychology. I completed my masters in Psychological Sciences in Duluth, Minnesota. Following, I decided to move somewhere colder (because -30 was not enough), fast forward a year and here I am, a Provisional Psychologist in Edmonton, Alberta!

From a young age, my passion has always been helping people. I am dedicated to providing mental health services to all individuals regardless of race, religion, color or creed. I believe that all people deserve compassion. I work to incorporate cultural competency and unconditional positive regard in my work. During my time in the field thus far, I have had the privilege of working with individuals overcoming trauma, neglect, abuse, anxiety and depression. My goal is to help people find their sense of self, empowerment and build the skills to reach their potential in life.

I understand firsthand how difficult asking for help can be. I am committed to providing you with a safe space where you can express yourself without judgement and where you can pursue your journey of growth at your own pace.

Working With Me

You are the expert of your own life. It is my opinion that you know yourself and your needs better than anyone else. Following a briefing on ethics and the ethical guidelines surrounding the client – my main goal in our first couple of sessions is to get to know you. I will ask you about your goals and intentions regarding why you decided to come to therapy and about your present and past circumstances. Do not feel pressured to address everything all at once. Our goal is to explore your needs and goals at your own pace.

In our first few sessions we will also likely spend some time talking about your expectations for me. I find that it can feel a little overwhelming to work with a stranger and, especially for those who have not worked with a psychologist before, it’s hard to know where to start. It is my goal to make it as easy as possible for you and give you the opportunity to ask me questions and to communicate to me your expectations. Therapy is your time, it is you-focused and it’s guided by you.

I am there to provide you with guidance through your journey, to offer you insight into internal and external conflicts you may be facing, and to provide you with tools and skills that you can implement in your life. Regardless of where you are right now, I am here to support you in whatever you need. If you are interested in working with me, please feel free to reach out for a consultation or book an appointment.

I look forward to embarking on this therapeutic journey with you!

Who Am I? HI! My name is Imane, I am Moroccan-American woman, raised in Minnesota with a dream t... Read More

Hi there!

Thank you so much for taking the time to check out my bio. I was born and raised in a rural community on an acreage and spent most of my childhood exploring the outdoors. I continue to love the outdoors, camping, hiking, and a good bonfire. I have been fortunate enough to have always known that this was going to be my career path, as I have always had an innate desire to help others. I completed my undergraduate degree, majoring in psychology, and then pursued a 10-year career with a not-for-profit agency in Edmonton. This year, I completed my master’s degree in counselling psychology through Yorkville University. I am happily married with two young boys aged 8 & 9 and enjoy raising them in a similar setting as my childhood, on an acreage in the Parkland County area. Raising children is not an easy feat, let alone having two in less than two years! I experienced post-partum anxiety and depression after my second born, and that experience validated my passion for mental health and helping others. I have a particular interest in helping other mothers who are struggling with raising children and maintaining their sense of purpose and individuality at the same time. I also have a passion for working with clients struggling with addiction and substance use. I enjoy working with clients through their stages of change and ensuring that I meet them wherever they are in their journey to sobriety, however that looks for them.

Working with me

Upon meeting you in our clinic, I look forward to building a strong therapeutic relationship and using that as the main vehicle for encouraging change and growth in your life. My goal is to foster an atmosphere of acceptance, understanding, and hope. I will approach our session with compassion, optimism, humor, honesty, and a genuine curiosity to understand your story. I use a cognitive behavioral approach with a person-centered lens, as you are the expert in your life and story. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) and use this as a tool to help restructure and reframe those negative core beliefs that may be holding you back in life. I aim to not only help you find relief from your pain and struggles but also empower you to take control of your life to build a brighter future. You are the driver in this journey of growth and healing; I am just here to help with the directions, and maybe give a few firm nudges here and there!

Hi there! Thank you so much for taking the time to check out my bio. I was born and raised in a ... Read More

Life is a journey. An oh so difficult one. But something profound can happen. As Scott Peck wrote in the Road Less Traveled, once we realize and accept this truth, life is no longer difficult.

Of course, this is by no means an easy task and can often feel like a lonely one. That’s where I can help. Hi, I’m Pooja, an East Indian Scottish woman who is trying to make a difference in the world. After completing a Masters of Science in Psychological Counselling in my hometown, I made it all the way here and become a Registered Provisional Psychologist.

Within that time, I have had the privilege in working with people who wanted to know more about their Self, improve their relationships and build their potential. This includes people with autism spectrum disorder and their caregivers and people who have experienced trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression.

Having been on both sides of the therapy room, I can understand some of the fears about embarking on a journey with pretty much a stranger. But with our experiences, I will provide a safe space for you and connect with you as we journey along the path of growth.

Life is a journey. An oh so difficult one. But something profound can happen. As Scott Peck wro... Read More

Who Am I?

Hello! My name is Rhianna and I am looking forward to completing my internship with Dóchas Psychological. To know me is to know where I come from – and that is the island of Newfoundland! It possesses unique beauty and cultural ways of its’ own, fostering within me a strong sense of family, identity and belonging. It is also where I met my husband and obtained my undergraduate degree in nursing.

Growing up, healthcare has always been an interest of mine, and taking care of others comes very naturally to me. The majority of my nursing career has been in palliative and long-term care settings, meeting the needs of vulnerable individuals dealing with complex health challenges. This area of nursing also fosters a delicate balance of connection, compassion and support for the loved ones of those in my care.

Shortly after graduation, career opportunities for my husband led us to the bittersweet decision to move to Ontario and begin a life of our own. I always say we had one ‘normal’ year of adjusting to our new life before COVID happened, which brought some unanticipated challenges. During that time, with nursing demands higher than ever, and living away from family and friends, I found myself feeling a little lost in my life, struggling with an unhealthy work-life balance. We then decided to move to a place that would bring us closer to family, and continue to support our budding careers. This has brought us to the beautiful city of Spruce Grove! We have lived here for almost four years now and are thoroughly enjoying all that this part of the country has to offer.

When I am not busy with work or school, I enjoy walking, biking, going to movies, baking, quality time with my fur babies, family game nights, and traveling!

Working With Me

To me, what is most important is that you are greeted in a warm, kind and non-judgemental way. This approach very much aligns with my personality, making it very natural for me to conduct our sessions in this manner. Life can be hard, unpredictable, and overwhelming. I want to take the time to listen and understand your story and lived experience. As my therapeutic lens is client-centered, the focus is on respecting your individual needs and values, open communication, shared decision making, and advocating for you. I also resonate strongly with holistic care, considering how physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual health all impact one’s overall well-being.

I have always loved learning, and psychology is simply fascinating to me! I am honoured to take on this role of counselor-in-training and continue exploring the many ways in which I can help others with their health care needs.

Who Am I? Hello! My name is Rhianna and I am looking forward to completing my internship with Dó... Read More

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Who Am I?

Qigong is a mind-body-spirit practice originating in China that uses your vital life energy to create and maintain a healthy mind and body. It uses simple poses and slow, purposeful movements along with breath and body awareness to create a healthy flow. Proper flow of our life force energy, or Qi, allows the bodies to use its own healing processes, and prevents the energy from becoming “stuck”, which is what can interfere with health and healing. Some reported benefits of this practice include:

Reduces stress. Balances emotions. Improves overall well-being. Improves memory. Increased Energy and Vitality. Builds the immune system. Improves sleep. Greater flexibility. A sense of contentment and peace.

Working With Me

Bob has been practising Qigong since 2014 and received his Level 1 & 2 in Qigong in 2016. He attended the Five Elements Healing Retreat in 2018 and practises Qigong on a daily basis. He incorporates various Qigong movements and breathing patterns so the students can experience their own Qi or energy first hand. We are so excited to have him join the Dóchas team as he brings a light-hearted, compassionate, and calming essence to support the work we are doing!

Who Am I? Qigong is a mind-body-spirit practice originating in China that uses your vital life e... Read More

Who Am I?

“Life is pain, highness. Anyone who tells you differently is selling something.” – William Goldman (from The Princess Bride). All sarcasm aside, life can be painful. Not being okay can be scary, especially if no one in your support system feels comfortable talking about emotions or mental health. If you’re looking for someone to talk to, seeking help probably seems less scary than staying where you are right now. I’ve been there. Asking for help goes against what Western society tells us: that we should be able to figure it all out on our own while also being productive. No wonder we don’t like our feelings.

I was diagnosed with depression and anxiety at 13 after self-harming and suicide attempts. Even before the diagnosis, I knew I was different and wished I was less ‘sensitive.’ Emotions and tears are natural, but if no one teaches us how to accept and communicate them, we feel lost. That’s where I come in - therapy step one: learning to be nice to yourself.

Working With Me

I am direct but non-directive. We will flow together where you want to go as you know yourself best. I hold a safe space using person-centred therapy, bilateral stimulation, and EMDR to process the memories, thoughts, and emotions that feel stuck and are hard to address on your own. I work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQIA2S+, and ages 14+.

Who Am I? “Life is pain, highness. Anyone who tells you differently is selling something.” – Wil... Read More

Hello! David here. I’m a mental health therapist here at Dóchas. It is a privilege to be part of a welcoming and supportive environment like this one.

About me…

I took a winding path that led me to pursue my third career in psychology. Before enrolling in Yorkville’s masters program, I pursued an array of business and agricultural interests.

When I was completing my undergraduate studies at the University of Alberta, I took two psychology courses before enrolling in the Faculty of Business. Those courses really “clicked” for me. Fast forward 15 years and the interest that piqued during those courses has never faded. It took me two years of psyching myself up (pun intended) before I finally submitted my application for a graduate program, but I did the scary thing. I am so glad I did, because it led me to be here with Dochas today. It’s a good reminder that bravery often pays off.

I live in the country, surrounded by animals—many horses, two dogs and a cat—and I love anything outdoors. I am hiking, skiing, riding horses and camping every chance I get.

Working with me…

I love to work with others and combine ideas. I believe something collaborative will always be greater than the sum of its individual parts.

Horse training over the past 25 years has taught me a lot about the value of having a diverse toolbox. In psychology, this translates to having a strong theoretical orientation while approaching challenges in unique ways that best suit each individual. Together, these two key ideas form the foundation of my therapeutic approach.

I aim to provide support that is tailor-made for clients and driven by their needs. We’ll progress at your pace, in the warmest, most accepting and non-judgmental way I can offer. Therapy can be a difficult journey, but as we work together, it’s my deepest hope that you find comfort and value in the time we invest together.

Hello! David here. I’m a mental health therapist here at Dóchas. It is a privilege to be part of ... Read More

Who Am I?

Therapy isn’t just about working through struggles. It’s also about understanding yourself in a way that feels real. Some days, it’s deep and reflective. Other days, it’s tough and uncomfortable. And sometimes, it’s even fun. Healing doesn’t always have to feel heavy to be meaningful.

I’ve been walking alongside people on their journeys since 2016, helping them navigate grief, trauma, life transitions, and relationships. I work with individuals, couples, and older adolescents, offering a space that is warm, open, and shaped by what you need. I’m also trained in EMDR therapy, which is especially helpful for processing painful experiences that feel stuck. My approach is humanistic, meaning I see you as a whole person. Not just a problem to be solved.

Outside the therapy room, I find meaning in deep conversations, capturing life through photography, and getting lost in a great documentary. I believe that reflection, creativity, and connection are all part of the healing process.

Working With Me

Therapy with me is a collaborative experience. It’s not about fixing you—because you’re not broken—but about creating space to explore, process, and grow. Whether you’re here to untangle a past wound, navigate a major change, or improve your relationships, I’m here to support you. Some sessions might feel like a breath of fresh air. Others might challenge you. Either way, we’ll take it one step at a time—together.

Your story matters. Let’s give it the space it deserves and shape what comes next.

Who Am I? Therapy isn’t just about working through struggles. It’s also about understanding your... Read More

Who Am I?

If you’re reading this, we’ve already got one thing in common: you’re looking for a little less chaos in life, and I’m here to help. Life has a way of throwing curveballs (or sometimes an entire storm), and having someone by your side can make all the difference. From an early age, I’ve been fascinated by people, their stories, their resilience, and the unique ways we all navigate the world. That curiosity led me to a career in counselling, where I’ve found my passion in helping others discover their own paths forward. I truly believe we all have the capacity to live a life we love, even when it feels out of reach. My role is to walk alongside you with empathy, warmth, and maybe even a few laughs to lighten the load. When I’m not in session, you’ll find me embracing adventure. I love hiking in the Rockies, camping, and exploring new places. I also enjoy quiet moments like digging into my garden, sipping a good cup of tea, or spending quality time with loved ones. These experiences keep me grounded and ready to bring my best self to the work I do.

Working With Me

In our sessions, you can expect a safe, non-judgmental space where we tackle life’s challenges together. My approach is warm, authentic, and tailored to your needs, with a focus on building resilience and finding clarity. Whether you’re navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles or adjusting to the unique demands of being an athlete, I’m here to support you. Together, we’ll find your strengths, work through the hard stuff, and maybe even share a laugh or two along the way.

Who Am I? If you’re reading this, we’ve already got one thing in common: you’re looking for a li... Read More

Who Am I? Hi, I’m Skye!

Here is a little about me on a personal level-

I am Mama to two sweet but spicy girls; one doodle girl and one toddler girl. Being a Mama is the best job in the world to me, but also the most challenging role I’ve had. I have learned so much about myself since my daughter was born and love teaching her everything I know.

What else?

I love the mountains, travel, hot yoga, and hiking.

I am fun loving, easy going, and love connecting with people.

There is something about sunshine, heat, fresh flowers, and coffee that make me happy.

I love to read the first chapter of a book, get busy, and re-read it months later. Repeat.

Working With Me I have always been deep feeling and curious about behaviour. In short, I believe that our world needs less judgment and more love! Somewhere along the way, I developed a passion for assisting individuals to heal, find peace, and have the courage and confidence to navigate challenges. Everyone needs a little support every now and again.

My goal is for clients to feel seen and heard, but also empowered. I am not here to solve your problems or answer your questions persay, but rather to give you the space to explore your needs, values, and goals to do that for yourself.

It is a privilege to witness the courage, growth, and healing of the wonderful humans I have the pleasure to work with.

Who Am I? Hi, I’m Skye! Here is a little about me on a personal level- I am Mama to two sweet b... Read More

Who Am I?

I was born and raised in the Parkland area and am looking forward to working in and giving back to the community. I feel fortunate to have found the Dóchas psychological services family and am beyond excited to learn and grow in my practice while in my practicum here. I am primarily focused on education and life transitions lately, but in my spare time, I enjoy traveling, family time, and being attached to the hip of my very energetic puppy “Ruby”.

Working With Me

Helping people in the healthcare field has been my passion for many years and the transition to counselling psychology is just a continuation for me on this journey. I have learned through personal experience that life doesn’t follow a linear path and was lucky to find a counsellor that helped me work through some of the more difficult road bumps that it threw my way. I am hoping to jump into that role myself and be a supportive professional to help work through the difficulties that arise in everyday life.

I see counselling as a joint effort to help explore personal goals, resilience, and strengths in a safe and objective environment. The first step can be tricky, but a safe and accommodating space may help to transition into a healthier and more fulfilling journey for those willing to try.

Who Am I? I was born and raised in the Parkland area and am looking forward to working in and gi... Read More

Hello, my name is Sagal, and I am a practicum student with Dochas Psychological, working under the supervision of Kim Long. Born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta, I completed my Bachelor of Arts at MacEwan University and am currently pursuing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. As a first-generation immigrant, my parents’ journey to Canada in the late ’80s has deeply influenced my perspective and passion for helping others.

My background in mental health is extensive and diverse. I’ve had the privilege of working with the Canadian Red Cross, providing psychosocial support to those affected by natural disasters, and managing crises for an addictions and mental health helpline. These experiences have fueled my desire to further my education and make a more profound impact, leading me to enroll in the Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology program.

When I’m not studying or working, I love spending quality time with family and friends, travelling to new places, working out, binge-watching my favourite shows, and exploring different restaurants.

Working with Me:

As a counselling student, I will be working under the supervision of Kim. I like to think of therapy as cultivating a garden. In our sessions, we’ll carefully tend to the areas of your life that need attention, nurture your strengths, and create a supportive environment where you can grow and flourish. My approach is person-centred, meaning that I focus on you and your unique needs, ensuring that our sessions are tailored to support your journey.

I look forward to hearing from you!

Hello, my name is Sagal, and I am a practicum student with Dochas Psychological, working under th... Read More

Who Am I?

Hello! My name is Melanie. Daughter, wife, mother, aunt, and grandmother are some of the roles I fill in my personal life. It is after a lifetime of living that I find myself realizing my dream of helping others as part of the team at Dochas Psychological Services.

In 1994 when I was 18 years old, I took my first psychology course and was completely fascinated by what I learned and was interested in going further in this field. However, as I like to say, you make plans and then life happens. As a newly married woman I had my first child in 1996 and life took me on another path. After raising my 3 sons and retiring from the accounting field, I have been blessed with the opportunity to focus on helping others.

In the last 5 years I have been working along side of others who are overcoming addictions, depression, anxiety, anger, childhood trauma, and other mental health issues. I have also had the privilege to work along side a psychologist as a psychometrist completing forensic psychological assessments. Through my experience I have learned that life can throw you some curveballs and having someone walk alongside you through these twists and turns will make the journey much more meaningful.

Working With Me

Client safety and progress is my top priority.

I approach sessions with a Cognitive Behavioural lens which is an evidence-based approach to helping others resolve problems and reach goals. I believe that a person-centered approach is important as it keeps you in the driver seat of our sessions ensuring we don’t venture into areas before you are willing or ready to do so. I know that beginning therapy can be a daunting task but I have confidence that you can take this courageous step towards wellness and healing!

Who Am I? Hello! My name is Melanie. Daughter, wife, mother, aunt, and grandmother are some of t... Read More

Who Am I?

Hey! My name is Rachael, but feel free to call me Rach.

Growing up in Alberta, I moved from a small hamlet to a small town, and finally to Edmonton. The diversity in the areas I have lived in has allowed me to cultivate a variety of interests from outdoors activities, like camping and hiking, to embracing the arts by supporting and visiting art galleries, theatre, and music.

As a kid, I always wanted a career helping people and originally was pursuing a career as a medical doctor. However, as I got older, I noticed the increased need for mental health workers and felt that pursuing a career in counselling and psychology was a better fit for me. I was drawn to counselling as there is greater time dedicated to learning and developing understanding and a relationship with a client and their situation prior to working on developing solutions. I have found that helping people through developing that healing connection, which is often missing with doctors, was more important to me than all the cool science stuff medical doctors learn. However, I am still very much a nerd about the science of the human body and mind, and am always willing to learn more or talk about the biological and chemical processes that make us tick.

Working With Me

During our first session we will begin by discussing the important ethical information of engaging in therapy, what a registered provisional psychologist is, and the role of my supervisor. Then we will begin learning more about you and what brought you to therapy.

When I think about mental health, I like to compare it to the weather. Sometimes everything is good, at times we can tell a storm is brewing (problems starting), now and then we find ourselves in the middle of a massive storm, and other times we are cleaning up after a storm. No matter what the weather is like in your world, I am here to help you maintain the calm, navigate through the storm, or clean up after. My role is to help you develop and recognize the skills needed to ensure you can handle whatever weather (mental health issues) come your way.

Even though I am here to help you prepare or find your way through difficult times, you are still the expert in all things you. So, as we work together, it is important to openly communicate about what you are experiencing so we can make sure we tailor our work to your needs. And, if you feel like I am not the right fit for you, that is okay too! We can work together to find someone who is (Therapist are sort of like shoes, not every shoe is the right fit but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other options)

Who Am I? Hey! My name is Rachael, but feel free to call me Rach. Growing up in Alberta, I move... Read More

Who Am I?

“The spirit of a [person] is constructed out of [their] choices” – Irvin Yalom

Hi! My name is Vlady and I am thrilled to be part of the Dóchas Psychological Services Team. My roadmap has involved eclectic experiences from public health, theatre, administration, science, and simulation education that has led me to the profession of counselling psychology. Being of service to others, love for learning, and active listening have been recurring motifs throughout my life that I see as aligning with this field.

Outside working hours, you can find me reading a book, biking in the river valley, exploring new coffee shops and restaurants with family and friends, at the gym, catching a play and/or philosophizing in conversations with family and friends.

Working With Me

Focus areas

My interests and practice experiences have centered on concerns such as anger, borderline personality disorder, relationship challenges, trauma, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. I enjoy working with adults, seniors, and adolescents.

Therapeutic approach

My primary training is grounded in a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)-informed approach which examines both acceptance and change strategies. I am also trained in EMDR to help in processing trauma and I pull elements from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Existential Therapy.

What can you expect in our sessions?

I believe we all possess strengths, resources, and a learning capacity to help us navigate life obstacles. Unconditional positive regard, empathy, curiosity, and active collaboration are important ingredients that you can expect to see in our sessions together. Ultimately, you are the expert of your own life and my hope is that you can leave each session feeling empowered in recognizing the choices available for you.

Billing

While we do not provide direct billing at this time for Canadian Certified Counsellors, please check with your health insurance carrier (e.g., Alberta Blue Cross, Green Shield, Canada Life etc.) if your unique plan covers the cost of mental health services provided by a Canadian Certified Counsellor and if you can be reimbursed after submitting the receipts to your health insurance group.

Who Am I? “The spirit of a [person] is constructed out of [their] choices” – Irvin Yalom Hi! My... Read More

Hello, my name is Renee Prins and I am so excited to be joining the team at Dochas Psychological! I am a mother, wife, sister, friend, aunt, and daughter – in all these roles, I treasure my relationships. I love running, volleyball, hiking, swimming, skiing… all the sports. I also love traveling, reading a good book, and listening to podcasts while I tinker in my yard. What drew me into this profession was the opportunity to create a space where people could feel supported and cared for. There is something profound that happens when two people meet in a therapeutic space and create a relationship together, like fellow travelers on a journey. The simple act of helping another person understand they are not alone, and that their feelings are normal, can be transformative. What I offer is a depth of personal experience, now turned into passion, for issues related to reproductive mental health, grief, hospice, marriage, and parenting. I am committed to supporting clients with these life experiences, facilitating their journey of loss, grief, healing, and growth. Working with clients from a trauma-informed perspective means that healing work begins through facilitating empathetic witnessing of parts of themselves that still hold the pain. I am trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in order to help clients process trauma. Another population I love to work with are youth and young adults! I am passionate about supporting and mentoring them as they explore uncertain, and at times, daunting futures. I consider it an honour to share space with clients in their vulnerable moments. Also, I believe that not everyone who comes to therapy must be in crisis! Part of looking after our overall wellbeing is attending to our mental health. This can mean optimizing our strategies for self-care, goal setting, and working on becoming more self-aware and self-actualized. By caring for ourselves, we can show up as the best version of who we are for our families, friends, careers… you name it! I am dedicated to empowering my clients to reach their potential. If any of this resonates with you, please don’t hesitate to connect with me. I would be honored to journey alongside you.

Hello, my name is Renee Prins and I am so excited to be joining the team at Dochas Psychological!... Read More

Who Am I?

Hi there, I am so privileged to be a part of the Dochas Psychological Team. Sometimes life gets complicated, and we need someone to walk alongside us on our path to growth and healing. My name is Alessandra, and for me it is an honor to help guide you on your road to success.

Some things about me… I enjoy being outside, walking around the city and staying active. I also enjoy listening to music or warming up to a good movie with a nice cup of coffee. I have inherited the travel bug from my parents and enjoy experiencing the cultural diversities within each destination. One of my favorite destinations was Capri, Italy. The lemon trees amongst the beaches were beautiful. It makes me think of the saying “when life gives you lemons, you make lemonade.” I believe having a sense of humor is essential in life and I am always ready to laugh together at a good or bad joke.

My experience through various life adversities has allowed me to appreciate the importance of meaningful relationships. Providing a non-judgmental space to allow others to be vulnerable with their emotions and experiences is important to me. I aim to embrace the experiences that led you to take the courageous step and start your therapeutic journey.

Working With Me

As a Counseling Psychology student, I aim to support you on your journey helping you reach your full potential. I will work under the supervision of Kim Long getting the mentorship I need to grow as a professional psychologist. I welcome feedback and will use it to develop as a counselor each day.

I value genuine connection and intend to bring an authentic, positive outlook to our work together. Following an open and honest posture in conversation I hope to discover your inner strengths to move forward through difficult emotions and life stressors. Through acceptance we will highlight the innate tools we carry and act in ways that is true to us.

Together uncovering your resiliency, we will define what is valuable to you. I look forward to meeting you and embarking on this journey together.

Who Am I? Hi there, I am so privileged to be a part of the Dochas Psychological Team. Sometimes ... Read More

Who Am I?

My educational and professional background has been shaped by an eclectic blend of disciplines. I did my BA at the University of Alberta, where I majored in English Literature and Film Studies and minored in Biological Sciences. Before entering the counselling field, I was a private tutor working with students with learning disabilities, and a Human Rights Worker supporting people with disabilities. I am now working on my Masters of Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. I love to be creative whenever possible, and spend my free time painting, drawing, singing, playing ukulele, and crafting ceramics, and hanging out with my four cats, of course.

Working With Me

When you work with me, you will find a safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental space to explore your challenges and grow. I bring curiosity, warmth, and even a touch of humour to my approach. I believe that curiosity is a powerful tool for opening up new possibilities, and I will always approach your story with a genuine interest in understanding you as a whole person. I take a client-centered approach, meaning that you are the expert of your own life. Together, we will explore your goals and work collaboratively to find solutions that feel right for you.

Who Am I? My educational and professional background has been shaped by an eclectic blend of dis... Read More

About Me

Hi, I’m Sierra, and I’m so glad you’re here.

At 14, I turned to self-help books, convinced they held the key to a better life. I devoured them one after another, hoping each would finally unlock the answers I was searching for. Instead of clarity, I found myself overwhelmed—cycling through the same advice in different words, feeling like I was somehow still living life wrong. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t shake the sense that I was behind, missing something everyone else seemed to understand.

That struggle taught me an important lesson: true growth doesn’t come from perfectly following a script—it comes from learning to trust yourself and embrace your unique path. Now, I strive to help others who may feel the same way, offering a space to explore, heal, and discover their own answers.

Growing up as the child of a US Army family, I moved constantly, living in four states (California, Virginia, Hawaii, and Texas) and four countries (United States, Japan, Canada, and New Zealand). Each move brought the challenge of starting over—new schools, new cultures, and new connections. It also taught me how vital human connection is, grounding us even during life’s most uncertain moments.

Before pursuing therapy, I earned my Bachelor’s in Nursing. This background continues to shape my approach to care. I believe mental health and physical health are deeply intertwined, and I strive to consider any biological or physical factors that may contribute to what you’re experiencing. With a holistic perspective, I aim to support your whole self, recognizing the connections between your body, mind, and emotions.

In addition to my nursing experience, I hold Level 1 and 2 Reiki certifications. This reflects my belief in holistic healing that stretches beyond the physical body. Whether it’s through mindfulness, exploring emotions, or addressing past experiences, I aim to create a space that nurtures every part of who you are.

As a former high-performing athlete, I also understand the pressures of striving for excellence. Therapy once helped me break free from self-doubt, turning challenges into opportunities for growth. This personal transformation inspires my work with others, particularly those navigating performance anxiety or the drive for perfection.

My work also extends to climate emotions like grief and anxiety. I’ve collaborated with researchers to explore the profound ways environmental changes impact mental health, echoing the emotions of smoky summers and forced evacuations many of us experience.

Working With Me

Starting therapy is a brave step, and I know it can feel intimidating. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported—a place where your story matters. Together, we’ll explore your experiences, uncover what holds you back, and build a path forward that aligns with your authentic self.

I specialize in working with teens, young adults, couples, LGBTQ+ individuals, and neurodiverse clients. Whether we’re addressing anxiety, past trauma, identity, relationship challenges, or feelings of being stuck, I tailor our work to meet your unique needs.

I integrate EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help process and heal from past experiences, as well as strengths-based approaches to empower you to navigate life’s challenges. My nursing background allows me to consider biological and physical factors that may influence your mental health, and my Reiki certifications support a holistic approach to care.

Therapy isn’t about fixing you—you are not broken. It’s about finding your voice, uncovering your strengths, and reconnecting with yourself. I would be honored to walk alongside you on this journey of healing, growth, and self-discovery.

Why I Do This Work

I believe in the transformative power of genuine connection. In my own life, I’ve experienced how one empathetic ear can empower us to make profound changes. Therapy is not just about solving problems—it’s about discovering who you are, what you value, and how to create a life that feels aligned with your authentic self.

If you’re ready to explore your story and embrace your unique path, I look forward to working with you. Let’s uncover the power of connection together.

About Me Hi, I’m Sierra, and I’m so glad you’re here. At 14, I turned to self-help books, convin... Read More

Who Am I? My name is Maddi, and I am a dedicated professional with a passion for supporting individuals through life’s most challenging moments. As a mother of three young children, I understand firsthand the balance of nurturing and chaos, which informs my empathetic approach to therapy.

I am a certified Clinical Counseling Trauma Professional (CCTP) with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. Currently, I am completing my Master of Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University, and I am in the process of registering with the Association of Counselling Therapists of Alberta to become a Registered Counselling Therapist.

Over the years, I have gained extensive experience working with the Victim Services Unit of the Parkland County RCMP, providing on-scene crisis management and offering support to individuals navigating trauma, grief, and other significant life challenges. This work has not only deepened my understanding of trauma but has also fueled my commitment to assisting others on their journey toward healing.

Working With Me In my therapeutic practice, I prioritize creating a collaborative and supportive environment where clients are empowered to take the lead in their healing process. My approach is client-centered, with a focus on listening attentively, offering thoughtful guidance when appropriate, and challenging clients to grow and gain insight. I believe that, through this partnership, individuals can regain their autonomy, build resilience, and find renewed hope.

Life can present periods of darkness, but through a combination of empathy, expertise, and a genuine commitment to client well-being, I am dedicated to helping individuals move toward the lighter side of life once again.

Who Am I? My name is Maddi, and I am a dedicated professional with a passion for supporting indiv... Read More